JAMES (JIM) DANIEL DREFS

Posted: February 1st, 2019

February 17, 1948 ~ January 29, 2019

On Tuesday, January 29, 2019, Jim was freed from the bondage of Alzheimer’s Disease and is now happily golfing and playing tennis in the next realm. His gentle manner, kindness and integrity continued throughout his illness and he faced the impending changes and losses with bravery and dignity. Jim was an athlete and sports were a major part of his life. He excelled in sports during his high school years at Crescent Heights Highâ€ˆSchool and played volleyball for the University of Calgary, while attaining his education degree. The majority of his teaching years were spent at CHHS, teaching physical education. His expertise and analytical mind made him an excellent coach and he devoted his life to working with kids. Many continued to call him “Coach”, even after his retirement. Jim was not only involved with school sports but was active in the community as well. He golfed, played tennis, dragon boated and was involved with the soccer association. His three children inherited his athletic abilities and excelled in a variety of sports. He was most proud of them. Sincerest thanks to Dr. Hirsch and the Riverview Care Center for the excellent care and love they provided. They gave the family the greatest gift a family could ask for – peace of mind. We always knew in our hearts that Jim was well cared for, safe, honoured and treated with dignity and respect. He will be lovingly remembered by his family: wife, Terri; daughter, Jenny (Dwayne); grandchildren, Riley and Lowyn and son, Jordan. He is also survived by his brother, Randy (Kathy) and their family as well as his sister, Linda. Jim was predeceased by his parents, Jo and Emil and his most beloved son, Brian. A Celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Saturday, February 2, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jim’s name may be made to Kidsport, PO Box 40009, 355 Southridge Drive S.E., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1B 4S6. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is